#FridayFlashback // RECOVERY // Last Tuesday I had my breast reconstruction surgery. What I've learned about breast cancer is just like the diagnosis and treatment the healing process would be just as much an individual journey. We all will recover in our own time.
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My double mastectomy was Sept 16'. To give my skin a opportunity to heal I had to wait 8 months after radiation treatments which ended in Dec. 2016 I took a 17 month detour. I wasn't as bothered by the expanders. Yes, they felt foreign in my body and hard as rocks. But I just wasn't ready to have another surgery and how they felt wasn't enough of a reason to push myself mentally, physically and emotionally.
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After spending most of 2016 in treatment, I wanted to truly heal and recover in 2017. Be present for every minute of getting used to the other side of cancer treatments. I wanted Shane to get his bearings back. I wasn't the only one affected by the diagnosis. And to take this last step was something we both needed to be aligned and ready.
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Two years ago this week I found the lump in my armpit. In the upcoming days I will anniversary in my head the steps I took the year I was diagnosed. But as I get further into my life as a survivor I feel an overwhelming feeling of love in my heart for so many that have come to support me, Shane and my girls. I didn't realize how emotional I would feel until right before the reconstruction surgery. I felt excited to close this chapter and grateful for being alive. Nothing is promised to us and we have to treat every minute we have as a blessing. I have way more compassion and empathy for me, my loved ones, friends, and community. I know we are all doing the best we can.
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Shane took this video of me after the surgery in recovery. I don't even remember saying this. But hearing myself describe what I was feeling is bittersweet. For all my fellow BC sisters, my love to you all. One day this too will be all behind you. 😘🙏🏽✨💜